East Ayrshire council has received endometriosis-friendly employer accreditation in recognition of the impact that the condition has on employees.
The council has signed up to the Endometriosis Friendly Employer scheme, run by Endometriosis UK, and pledged to create a working environment in which those with the condition are supported to thrive.
The council is the first local authority to sign up to the scheme which provides guidance for employers on how to support employees with endometriosis and menstrual health conditions, and work towards improving the work environment in three key areas: leadership and management support; tackling stigma and changing culture and communication.
The council will be identifying endometriosis champions, who can become a point of contact for employees experiencing issues at work as a result of endometriosis and can signpost colleagues for further information and support.
Councillor Clare Maitland (pictured, centre), Cabinet member with responsibility for health and social care, said: “I’ve been a sufferer since my early teens, and I know how debilitating this condition can be. I’ve been very closely involved in this work, which stemmed from our menopause working group. That working group has helped to raise awareness of the menopause in the workplace, and this focus on endometriosis helps to take women’s health in the workplace to new heights, ensuring that female employees of all ages will receive the support they require in the workplace.
“So many women are afraid to speak out in the workplace for fear of not being believed, but this ground-breaking policy defines the roles and responsibilities of employees, managers, the people and culture service and occupational health in supporting employees affected by endometriosis.”